Hutchison Vale players deliver hampers of Christmas cheer to pensioners

With a total of 40 hampers packed to the brim with provisions including biscuits, soups and cereals, items donated by both Asda and the Co-operative, Christmas has arrived early for several local pensioners who had been nominated to receive a hamper by some of the local churches and community groups.

Boxes of eggs were also included within the Christmas goodies which were provided by John and Sheila Gowans whose continuous support is very much appreciated by all connected with the football club.

The initiative is now in its 22nd year since it began in 1991 and one year after the club celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Club secretary Les Trotter reinforces the significance of providing to people in need at this time of year.

Trotter said: “We want to give to the local community and take the pressure off some of the people who perhaps struggle in their day-to-day lives, so it’s great for us to do this and provide that little bit extra comfort. It’s something we have done for years and it’s good everyone comes together to help out. We are grateful for the support from both Asda and the Co-operative for their donations and of course the Gowans family.”

SNP Councillor Cathy Fullerton for Sighthill and Gorgie was present to offer her support along with Edinburgh Capitals’ ice hockey stars, Latvian player Marcis Zembergs and Canadians Jade Portwood and Curtis Leinweber. Fullerton could not speak highly enough of an initiative which she believes will make Christmas that little bit special.

She said: “I think it is crucial for the club to be delivering the hampers and fantastic they have been doing so for so many years.

“There are a lot of people living on the breadline who really need basic items such as tea, bread and soup. It can be especially hard for the elderly to get out at this time of year with the weather and this just makes life that little bit easier for those people. To have the hampers delivered to their front doors packed with the essentials will make all the difference over the Christmas period. I am sure the people receiving the hampers are just as grateful for the donations they receive from the football club.”